Inspiring the Next Generation of Engineers
To build a more diverse and inclusive engineering workforce, we must inspire young minds from all backgrounds to consider careers in engineering. This inspiration needs to start early, well before pupils reach secondary school. By the time pupils are in high school, many have already formed their career interests and may have misconceptions about what engineering entails. Introducing engineering concepts at the primary school level is crucial to shaping their perceptions, sparking their curiosity, and helping them develop essential skills for the future.
Empowering Schools Through the Primary Engineer Programme
Primary Engineer has been making significant strides in this space with their fully-funded educational programmes and competitions designed to engage both teachers and pupils in meaningful ways. By creating strong connections between engineering principles and real-world applications, these initiatives equip young learners with the skills and confidence to explore engineering careers.
Recognising the importance of early engagement, Primary Engineer and Thames Freeport have joined forces during the 2024/2025 academic year to introduce engineering into primary schools across the boroughs of Barking and Dagenham, Havering, and Thurrock through the Primary Engineer Construction Programme.
This collaboration aligns with Thames Freeport’s mission to enhance economic growth by supporting local talent and fostering skills development in key industries. As the Freeport develops into a logistics and manufacturing powerhouse, the demand for skilled engineers will only increase. Investing in STEM education today ensures that the region can build a strong, local talent pipeline for the future..
Kick-starting the Programme with Hands-On Learning
The partnership officially launched on Friday, 17th January 2025, where engineers and local teachers gathered for a dynamic training session. The full-day event was highly practical and interactive, equipping teachers with the knowledge and skills to deliver a hands-on engineering programme in their classrooms.
More than just a training session, this initiative fosters confidence in STEM education. Engineering and technology professionals play a crucial role in enhancing both teacher and pupil learning by raising awareness of the wide range of career opportunities in the field. With industries like logistics, port management, and construction evolving rapidly—especially with the Thames Freeport driving innovation—ensuring that the next generation understands the potential of engineering careers is critical.
Bringing Engineering to Life in the Classroom
Following the training, teachers will take their newly acquired skills back to their classrooms and introduce pupils to engineering through engaging, hands-on projects. This cross-curricular programme allows pupils to design, build, and test their own models while interacting with real-world engineering professionals.
The programme also includes an exciting joint school event at the end of the initiative, where pupils will showcase their work, celebrate their achievements, and gain further insights into the role of engineering in shaping industries like logistics, transport, and infrastructure.
Strengthening Local Industry Through Education
Thames Freeport’s involvement in this initiative underscores its commitment to investing in people and skills development. As the Freeport continues to establish itself as a major economic hub, the need for a highly skilled workforce in engineering, logistics, and advanced manufacturing will grow exponentially.
By nurturing talent at an early stage, this initiative helps bridge the skills gap, ensuring that local young people can access high-quality career opportunities within Thames Freeport and beyond. This is a long-term investment in the region’s future, reinforcing the UK’s position as a leader in engineering and innovation.
Engineering is at the heart of the infrastructure and logistics sectors
Moreover, engineering is at the heart of the infrastructure and logistics sectors that the Thames Freeport is working to expand. As new developments and projects take shape, there will be a need for a workforce that understands the complexities of modern engineering, from sustainable construction methods to advanced supply chain technologies. By partnering with Primary Engineer, Thames Freeport is actively laying the foundation for future engineers who will be instrumental in shaping the success of the Freeport and supporting its ambitious plans for growth.
By exposing students to engineering from a young age, this programme helps ensure that the Freeport can develop a robust talent pipeline capable of meeting the demands of the logistics and infrastructure sectors. It provides a direct link between education and industry, equipping students with the practical knowledge, problem-solving skills, and innovative thinking needed to contribute to the evolving landscape of Thames Freeport.
About Primary Engineer
Primary Engineer is an educational not-for-profit organisation founded in 2005 with the mission of engaging both primary and secondary school pupils and teachers in the exciting world of engineering and technology. Working with businesses and industry partners across the UK, they aim to develop a diverse future generation of engineering and technology professionals, ensuring that the workforce of tomorrow is equipped with the skills needed to drive innovation and economic growth.
This blog was written by Steph Shencoe is an experienced B2B communications manager, working closely with high profile UK industry and educational stakeholders on marketing activity and focusing on raising the brand profile of Primary Engineer.Â